M.V. Boy Colm which provides ferry services from Baltimore and Cunnamore throughout the summer months of July and August to Heir Island and to Sherkin Island. Unscheduled and special sailings to other destinations on this vessel are upon request. For angling trips, island and "eco" tours, the M.V. Norvic provides a service within Roaringwater Bay. One restaurant on the island is noted for its fresh "catch of the day"; which varies depending on season. Shrimp, lobster, salmon, crab and a variety of local fish are served at the restaurant called, "The Island Cottage". A special evening ferry departs from Cunnamore at 8pm and returning at 12 midnight, and like the restaurant is by booking only. Heir Island is supplied with mains power from the mainland through a submarine power cable. Geography Over 200 species of wildflower grow on Heir Island. The island has many beaches, as well as cliffs on the most south-westerly point known as The Dún. The island is surrounded by Carbery's Hundred Isles and has a view of Mount Gabriel near Schull. It has of fertile land, some of which is set-aside. Every year there is a special mass for all the children that died on the island during famine or from illness, at the children's famine memorial. This memorial is located near the Old-Schoolhouse in the centre of the island and is marked with a large cross. Tourism The permanent population of Heir Island is only 25–30, but during summer months when the holiday homes are occupied the population increases to around 150. Although the small island does not have a pub, it has B&Bs, holiday rentals, an art gallery, a sailing school and outdoor activities camp, a holistic therapy centre, one permanent restaurant and one pop-up restaurant which is located in the Sailing School. Fresh bread is also made at the Firehouse Bakery where baking courses are also held. The island is also home to a handful of artists, and their work is shown in the galleries on the island. The island is also a destination for bird watchers, due to its mixture of eco-systems; coastal, forest, marsh and heathland. Heir Island is one of the seven inhabited West Cork Islands. See also Schull Carbery's Hundred Isles List of islands of Ireland References External links HeirIsland.ie Official Website of Heir Island Community Council Islands of County Cork Ruins in the Republic of Ireland